The Syrian opposition that managed to drive President Bashar al-Assad into exile in Russia is now establishing a new government aimed at ending the oppressive rule of the Assad family, which has dominated Syria for over five decades.

According to U.S. Central Command, the United States has executed airstrikes in Syria targeting the terrorist group ISIS to hinder its resurgence. Israel has also targeted suspected chemical weapons sites in Syria.

The removal of Assad marks a significant shift in the Middle Eastern landscape and could restrict Iran and Russia’s influence on Arab nations, as reported by Reuters.

On Sunday, rebels gained control over Damascus, the country’s capital. However, questions remain regarding the structure and leadership of the emerging government in Syria.

Main rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, known as Abu Mohammed al-Golani, has reportedly met with Assad’s Prime Minister Mohammed Jalali and Vice President Faisal Mekdad to negotiate the formation of a transitional government, according to Reuters.

Current Situation in Syria

Post-Assad’s exile, the U.S. has conducted airstrikes against over 75 ISIS targets in Syria, as reported by Military Times. These attacks utilized B-52 bombers, F-15 fighters, and A-10 Warthogs.

General Michael Erik Kurilla stated, “We will not allow ISIS to regain strength or exploit the current turmoil in Syria. Any organization in Syria should know they will be held accountable if they align with or support ISIS in any manner,” as shared by CENTCOM.

Since December 8, Israel has been carrying out airstrikes against potential Syrian chemical weapons facilities. The New York Times noted that Israeli soldiers entered Syrian territory over the past weekend.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated that Israel intends to “eliminate significant strategic weapons across Syria, including surface-to-air missiles, air defense systems, surface-to-surface missiles, cruise missiles, long-range rockets, and coastal missiles,” according to YSL News.

Key Players in the Ouster of Bashar al-Assad

The triumphant rebels, primarily led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), are classified as a terrorist group worldwide. The U.S. State Department designated HTS as a Foreign Terrorist Organization in May 2018, as noted by YSL News.

HTS is a militant Sunni Islamist organization that was established at the onset of the Syrian civil war 13 years ago.

President Joe Biden referred to Assad’s ousting as a “historic opportunity,” stating the U.S. intends to collaborate with various rebel factions, including those labeled as terrorist groups, as confirmed by White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on CBS Mornings.